WASHINGTON — Hyundai is recalling 515 2010 Tucson vehicles because a child in the front passenger seat may not be properly protected in a crash, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
"Properly seated adult right front seat passengers weighing over approximately 240 pounds cause the passive occupant detection system (PODS) module program to illuminate the 'air bag' warning lamp," said NHTSA in its recalls summary of the problem. "If the 'air bag' warning lamp is illuminated, the passenger airbag will deploy if a crash of sufficient force to require front airbag deployment is experienced, and will not be deactivated if a child is seated in the right front seating position, which may increase the risk of injury to a child front passenger."
Hyundai said it is unaware of injuries related to the recall in other documentation filed with the federal government. The involved vehicles were built between November 10 and November 30, 2009.
Hyundai dealers will program the PODS module for free. Owners are in the process of being notified of the recall. Hyundai owners can contact the automaker at 800-633-5151.
Inside Line says: If you own the aforementioned Hyundai Tucson, have it checked out by your dealer ASAP. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent
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djc1969 says:
08:06 PM, 03/09/2010
How stupid this vehicle really is... first off EVERY dealer wants you to pay more for this entry level 4 cylinder garbage car, than a brand new Santa Fe with th 3.3 V-6.... absurd! It's smaller, weaker, and costs more? Get bent Hyundai! I own a 2007 3.3 V6 Sonata and it moves out. they better get with it. I am losing faith here and have been a Hyundai owner for almost 10 years now. I might have to switch brands
zoomzoom22 says:
02:06 PM, 03/01/2010
Only in America would a car be recalled for a danger to children over 240 lbs.
If a child weighs that much, an airbag probably won't kill them and that should be the least of their (and the parent's) worries.
notabigdeal says:
12:15 PM, 03/01/2010
Only in america would you find an abundance of people >240lb....this is a problem isn't it.
creeper says:
09:41 AM, 03/01/2010
so, is the problem that the airbag warning light stays on even after the hefty passenger gets out and is replaced by a 10 year old child? or is the issue that a 240+ pound child is in the front seat?